Remarkable People

StairSteady gives a helping hand up stairs

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Inventor Ruth Amos demonstrates StairSteady
StairSteady mobility device helps users get up and down stairs
StairSteady mobility device helps users get up and down stairs
Inventor Ruth Amos demonstrates StairSteady
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We’ve seen some innovative free-standing personal mobility aids designed to tackle stairs in recent times, but this offering from a young UK inventor takes a fresh approach to a solution that's been around for years - the mechanical stair-lift. Conceived by Ruth Amos when she was just 16 years old, the StairSteady is a handrail with a unique steadying handle and locking device that supports the user whilst on the staircase while allowing them to remain active and independent.

The StairSteady is a compact unit that is fixed to the wall on either side of the steps. If weight is applied to the handle - it will lock - which gives users extra support when ascending and descending the stairs. When not in use, the handle simply folds away parallel to the wall - so other family members or house guests are able to use the stairs unobstructed. It has been tested to 25 stone and there is an option to include a dog leg so it can complete a 90 or 180 degree turn if the building has two short flights which are joined by a half-landing.

This mobility aid is designed to keep the user fit and active and is also suitable for people recovering from sports injuries or those requiring rehabilitation. It can be modified to suit households with more than one person requiring mobility support by including two handles on a single rail.

Amos was inspired by the story of her teacher’s father who had suffered a stroke and was supposed to exercise but was unable to use his stairs. She won the British Young Engineers Annual Celebration of Engineering in 2006 for the StairSteady and established her StairSteady business shortly afterwards.

The unit is available with a standard rail for EUR472.65.

StairSteady via Make.

View gallery - 6 images
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3 comments
matthew.rings
Brilliant! I hope she collects the due monetary reward for her innovation which can help millions, and be a bridge between a common handrail and a full-motorized stair-chair for those with only moderate disability.
Three cheers,
Doc
imp2010
Many people have difficulty using the stairs but do not have the space or the money for a stair lift. Others only need assistance and the exercise would keep them healthy and active. They just need that little more support and help. It is a high quality handrail with a supporting rail coming off it that slides when pushed but locks when weight is applied. It acts as a support aid when both ascending and descending the stairs. stairlifts
mmaaria
i enjoy your article. great job. keep it simple